Electronic camera with self-explanation/diagnosis mode

ABSTRACT

An electronic camera having a plurality of functions including capturing and recording images is provided. The electronic camera includes an operation input unit for inputting external operations that designate corresponding functions of the camera to be performed, an image pickup unit for capturing the image of an object, and a recorder for recording the image captured by the image pickup unit. The electronic camera further includes a playback unit for at least playing back image information that is recorded on the recording medium and a mode selector for selecting one operation mode of the camera from a plurality of available operation modes that include an operation explanation mode. If the operation explanation mode is selected at the mode selector, the playback unit plays back an operation guide that is pre-stored in a memory, the operation guide explaining at least one of the camera operations and functions thereof.

[0001] This applications claims the benefit of Japanese Applications No.09-001866, filed in Japan on Jan. 9, 1997 and No. 09-010154, filed inJapan on Jan. 23, 1997, both of which are hereby incorporated byreference.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0002] 1. Field of the Invention

[0003] The present invention relates to an electronic camera, and moreparticularly, to an electronic camera that has an operation instructionmode and/or a diagnostic mode.

[0004] 2. Discussion of the Related Art

[0005] In general, electronic cameras record still images and/or movingimages using image pickup devices. In particular, digital cameras arepopular among a wide range of users because they are easy to use fortaking pictures due to the fact that digital cameras do not require filmdeveloping processes, which are necessary for conventional camerasemploying silver-halide films.

[0006] The fact that digital cameras are accepted by a wide range ofusers implies that there is increasing use of the electronic camera bythose who are inexperienced with not only operation of a camera but alsomechanical operations in general.

[0007] In order to learn how to operate a camera, it is often necessaryto read the operation manual. However, operation manuals are hard tounderstand and operators have to locate the necessary information in theoperation manual every time they need help. Therefore, learning cameraoperations takes effort and time for those who are inexperienced withmechanical operations in general.

[0008] In addition, taking pictures is frequently conducted outdoors,and therefore users sometimes find themselves in a situation where theyhave to carry the operation manuals with them all the time until theygain the necessary familiarity with the camera's operations.

[0009] Furthermore, current electronic cameras that record moving imageshave not only functions for taking and displaying pictures but alsoadvanced image-editing functions. In these electronic cameras, thenumber of operation buttons increases as the complexity andsophistication of the functions increase. Therefore, the operation ofthe camera is becoming even more difficult. Thus, learning camera'scomplicated and sophisticated functions takes an even longer time.

[0010] Some other aspects of electronic cameras are discussed below. Ingeneral, an electronic camera not only records photographic images butalso processes and edits photographic images. Because of this, there area wide variety of usages for electronic cameras, and opportunities forusing electronic cameras for photographic purposes instead ofsilver-halide cameras are increasing. For example, electronic camerasare used for picture-taking on family trips and at school events. Sincethere is no second chance to take pictures for these trips and schoolevents, camera users tend to feel anxious about whether the camera isworking properly.

[0011] To cope with this issue, conventional electronic cameras areequipped with a liquid crystal display (LCD) screen so that operatorscan check the image during and/or after picture taking. However, withthis limited confirmation of camera operations during and/or after thephoto shooting, there is a large possibility that even if the camera isbroken, a user does not notice the problem and starts shooting pictures.

[0012] Idealistically, it is desirable that users check the camera everytime they take pictures by conducting a test shooting before theyactually start taking pictures to ensure the proper operation of thecamera. In reality, however, this is a very cumbersome task. Moreover,even when the camera appears to be normally operating, malfunctions areoccurring. In general, it is difficult for the operator to judge whetherall the functions of the camera are working properly.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0013] Accordingly, the present invention is directed to an electroniccamera that substantially obviates one or more of the problems due tolimitations and disadvantages of the related art.

[0014] An object of the present invention is to provide an electroniccamera that allows users easily and quickly to understand the functionsof the camera and makes advanced functions of the camera easy to learnfor users.

[0015] Another object of the present invention is to provide anelectronic camera that makes it possible to eliminate the troubleassociated to a switching operation between an operation instructionmode and a normal use mode.

[0016] A further object of the present invention is to provide anelectronic camera that is capable of checking each function of thecamera easily and accurately.

[0017] Additional features and advantages of the invention will be setforth in the description that follows, an in part will be apparent fromthe description, or may be learned by practice of the invention. Theobjectives and other advantages of the invention will be realized andattained by the structure particularly pointed out in the writtendescription and claims hereof as well as the appended drawings.

[0018] To achieve these and other advantages and in accordance with thepurpose of the present invention, as embodied and broadly described, thepresent invention provides an electronic camera having a plurality offunctions including capturing and recording images, the electroniccamera including an operation input unit for inputting externaloperations that designate corresponding functions of the camera to beperformed; an image pickup unit for capturing the image of an object; arecorder for recording the image captured by the image pickup unit on arecording medium; a playback unit for at least playing back imageinformation that is recorded on the recording medium; and a modeselector for selecting one operation mode of the camera from a pluralityof available operation modes that include an operation explanation mode,wherein if the operation explanation mode is selected at the modeselector, the playback unit plays back an operation guide that ispre-stored in a memory, the operation guide explaining at least one ofthe camera operations and functions thereof.

[0019] In another aspect, the present invention provides an electroniccamera, including an image pickup unit for capturing the image of anobject; a recorder for recording the image captured by the image pickupunit on a recording medium; a playback unit for at least playing backimage information that is recorded on the recording medium; a modeselector for selecting a function diagnosis mode; and a function testerfor testing functions of the camera if the function diagnosis mode isselected by the mode selector.

[0020] In another aspect, the present invention provides an electroniccamera having a plurality of functions including capturing and recordingimages, the electronic camera including a mode selector externallyswitchable to select one of a function diagnosis mode and a normal mode;an operation input unit for inputting external operations that initiatecorresponding functions of the camera while the camera is in the normalmode; an image pickup unit for capturing the image of an object inaccordance with the external operations inputted through the operationinput unit while the camera is in the normal mode; a recorder forrecording the image captured by the image pickup unit in accordance withthe external operations inputted through the operation input unit whilethe camera is in the normal mode; a playback unit for at least playingback image information that is recorded on the recording medium inaccordance with the external operations inputted through the operationinput unit while the camera is in the normal mode; and a function testerfor testing functions of at least one of the operation input unit, theimage pickup unit, the recorder, and the playback unit, when thefunction diagnosis mode is selected by the mode selector.

[0021] In another aspect, the present invention provides an electroniccamera having a plurality of functions including capturing and recordingimages, the electronic camera including a mode selector externallyswitchable to select one of an operation explanation mode, a functiondiagnosis mode, and a normal mode; an operation input unit for inputtingexternal operations that initiate corresponding functions of the camerawhile the camera is in the normal mode; an image pickup unit forcapturing the image of an object in accordance with the externaloperations inputted through the operation input unit while the camera isin the normal mode; a recorder for recording the image captured by theimage pickup unit in accordance with the external operations inputtedthrough the operation input unit while the camera is in the normal mode;a playback unit for at least playing back image information that isrecorded on the recording medium in accordance with the externaloperations inputted through the operation input unit while the camera isin the normal mode; and a function tester for testing functions of atleast one of the operation input unit, the image pickup unit, therecorder, and the playback unit, when the function diagnosis mode isselected by the mode selector, wherein if the operation explanation modeis selected at the mode selector, the playback unit plays back anoperation guide that is pre-stored in a memory, the operation guideexplaining at least one of the camera operations and functions thereof.

[0022] In another aspect, the present invention provides an electroniccamera including a means for operation input by which the cameraoperations are input externally; an image-receptor that takes a pictureof the subject and creates images in correspondence to theimage-reception operation of the camera received by said means ofoperation input; a recording means that records the image created bysaid means of image-reception on a recording medium; a means of playbackthat plays back the image that is recorded on the recording medium incorrespondence to the playback operation of the camera received by saidmeans of operation input; and a means of mode selection that selects anoperation instruction mode through the operation of an external modeselection wherein in the state that the operation instruction mode isselected, when the camera operation is obtained by said means ofoperation input, said means of playback replays a guide that is providedin advance for the purpose of explaining the camera operation

[0023] In another aspect, the present invention provides an electroniccamera including an image-receptor means that takes pictures of thesubject and creates images; a recording means that records the imagecreated by said image-receptor means on a recording medium; a playbackmeans that plays back the image that is recorded on the recordingmedium; a mode selection means that selects a function diagnosis mode byan external selection operation of function diagnosis mode; and antest-of-action means that carries out a test of the action of eachfunction of the camera when the function diagnosis mode is selected bysaid mode selection means.

[0024] In another aspect, the present invention provides an electroniccamera having a plurality of functions including capturing and recordingimages, the electronic camera including means for inputting externaloperations that designate corresponding functions of the camera to beperformed; means for capturing an image of an object; means forrecording the image captured by the capturing means on a recordingmedium; means for playing back image information that is recorded on therecording means; and means for selecting one operation mode of thecamera from a plurality of available operation modes that include anoperation explanation mode, wherein if the operation explanation mode isselected at the selecting means, the playback means plays back anoperation guide that is pre-stored in a memory, the operation guideexplaining at least one of the external operations and correspondingcamera functions thereof.

[0025] In a further aspect, the present invention provides an electroniccamera, including means for capturing an image of an object; means forrecording the image captured by the capturing means on a recordingmedium; means for playing back image information that is recorded on therecording medium; means for selecting a function diagnosis mode; andmeans for testing functions of the camera if the function diagnosis modeis selected by the selecting means.

[0026] It is to be understood that both the foregoing generaldescription and the following detailed description are exemplary andexplanatory and are intended to provide further explanation of theinvention as claimed.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0027] The accompanying drawings, which are included to provide afurther understanding of the invention and are incorporated in andconstitute a part of this specification, illustrate embodiments of theinvention and together with the description serve to explain theprinciples of the invention.

[0028] In the drawings:

[0029]FIG. 1 is a block diagram illustrating operation of a firstpreferred embodiments of the present invention;

[0030]FIG. 2 is a block diagram illustrating operation of anotherexample of a first preferred embodiment of the present invention;

[0031]FIG. 3 is a structural block diagram illustrating a firstpreferred embodiment of the present invention;

[0032]FIG. 4 is a perspective view of an electronic camera including toa first preferred embodiment of the present invention;

[0033]FIG. 5 shows a display panel screen of the electronic cameraaccording to a first preferred embodiment of the present invention;

[0034]FIG. 6 shows a flow chart illustrating actions of an operationinstruction mode according to a preferred embodiment of the presentinvention;

[0035]FIGS. 7A and 7B show perspective views of an electronic camera ina normal mode and an operation explanation mode, respectively, accordingto a first preferred embodiment of the present invention;

[0036]FIG. 8 indicates another display panel screen according to apreferred embodiment of the present invention;

[0037]FIG. 9 is a block diagram illustrating operation of a secondpreferred embodiment of the present invention;

[0038]FIG. 10 is a block diagram illustrating operation of anotherexample of a second preferred embodiment of the present invention;

[0039]FIG. 11 is a block diagram illustrating operation of anotherexample of a second preferred embodiment of the present invention;

[0040]FIG. 12 is a block diagram illustrating operation of anotherexample of a second preferred embodiment of the present invention;

[0041]FIG. 13 shows a structural block diagram illustrating a secondpreferred embodiment of the present invention;

[0042]FIG. 14 is a perspective view of an electronic camera according toa second preferred embodiment of the present invention;

[0043]FIG. 15 shows a flow chart illustrating operation of an MPU duringthe diagnostics mode according to a preferred embodiment of the presentinvention; and

[0044]FIGS. 16A and 16B show perspective views of an electronic camerain a normal mode and a function diagnosis mode, respectively, accordingto a second preferred embodiment of the present invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0045] Reference will now be made in detail to the preferred embodimentsof the present invention, examples of which are illustrated in theaccompanying drawings.

[0046] First Preferred Embodiment

[0047]FIG. 1 shows a block diagram illustrating operation of anelectronic camera according to a first preferred embodiment of thepresent invention. The electronic camera according to the firstpreferred embodiment includes an instruction input unit 1 (or operationinput unit), through which an instruction for the camera operation isexternally inputted, and an image pickup unit 2 for capturing the imageof an object in accordance with the instruction received by theinstruction input unit 1. The electronic camera further has a recorder 3for recording the image captured by the image pickup unit 2 on arecording medium, a playback section 4 for reproducing the imagerecorded on the recording medium in accordance with the instructionreceived by the instruction input unit 1, and a mode selector 5 forselecting operation modes including an operation explanation mode (oroperation or function instruction mode). If the operation explanationmode is selected at the mode selector, the playback section 4 displaysthe pre-stored explanation of the camera operation that corresponds tothe instruction received by the instruction input unit 1.

[0048]FIG. 2 shows another example of the electronic camera according tothe first embodiment of the present invention. In this electroniccamera, data for explaining the camera operations are pre-stored on arecording medium that is detachable from the main body of the camera,and a mode selector 5 selects operational modes including an operationexplanation mode when the recording medium is attached to the main bodyof the camera.

[0049] In the electronic camera of FIG. 1, when an instruction to takepictures is input through the instruction input unit 1 by an operator,the image pickup unit 2 starts capturing the images of an object inaccordance with the instruction (“image pickup operation”), and recorder3 records the image created by the image pickup unit 2 on the recordingmedium.

[0050] The playback section 4 reproduces the image recorded on therecording medium according to an display instruction (“displayoperation”). The reproduction operation is performed when an instructionto reproduce images is input through the instruction input unit 1, forexample.

[0051] When an operator selects an operation explanation mode throughthe mode selector 5, the electronic camera enters the operationexplanation mode. In the operation explanation mode, whenever a cameraoperation is carried out, an explanation of that camera operation(referred to as “operation guide”) is reproduced. This operation guidemay be in the form of an image and/or sound.

[0052] In the electronic camera of FIG. 2, the operation guide ispre-stored on a detachable recording medium. When the recording mediumis attached to the main body of the camera, the mode selector 5 has anadditional option to select the operation explanation mode. Theoperation explanation mode may automatically be selected based onwhether the operation explanation guide is recorded on the attachedrecording medium. Alternatively, the operation explanation mode may beinitiated by detecting attachment of the recording medium, regardless ofwhether the operation explanation mode is selected or not at the modeselector 5.

[0053]FIG. 3 shows a structural block diagram of an example of thepresent embodiment. FIG. 4 shows perspective views of the electroniccamera according to the present example. As shown in FIG. 3, a main body21 is accompanied by a camera part 22. In the camera part 22, an imaginglens (or optical system) 23 is installed and an image pickup device 24is arranged to receive light transmitted through the imaging lens 23.The image signal from the image pickup device 24 is supplied to a mainprocessor unit (MPU) 26 via an A/D converter 25.

[0054] The MPU 26 is connected to a magneto-optical recording medium 28via a data access section 27. This magneto-optical recording medium 28is disc-shaped, randomly accessible, and is detachable from the mainbody 21, for example. In addition, the MPU 26 is connected to a liquidcrystal display (LCD) panel 29 to display the image data output throughthe MPU 26. The LCD panel 29 has a touch screen 30 mounted therein, andpressing operations sensed by the touch screen 30 are supplied to theMPU 26 as positional information indicating the corresponding positionin the screen. Furthermore, MPU 26 controls a lens driving section 31and an exposure control section 32.

[0055] Various operation buttons 33 for selecting camera operations areconnected to MPU 26. As shown in FIG. 4, the operation buttons 33include an image pickup button 34, focus button 35, zoom button 36,exposure button 37, and a mode selection button 38. In addition, anauxiliary output terminal 140 and a magneto-optical drive 41 (MO drive)are arranged at the side of the camera.

[0056] The MPU 26 performs various functions including processing imagedata from the A/D converter 25 and the magneto-optical recording medium28, and controlling the data access section 27, lens driving section 31,and the exposure control section 32. The functions of the MPU furtherinclude recognizing instructions (or operations) that are input throughthe touch screen 30 and operation button 33, creating the image to bedisplayed on LCD panel 29, and performing functions designated by themode selection button 38 when the magneto-optical medium having imagesfor explaining camera operations (referred to as “operation instructionimage,” corresponding to “operation guide” above) is inserted.

[0057] The correspondence between the electronic cameras described withreference to FIGS. 1 and 2 and the present example of FIGS. 3 and 4 isas follows. The operation recognition function of MPU 26, touch screen30, and the operation buttons 33 collectively correspond to theinstruction input unit 1. The imaging lens 23, image pickup device 24,A/D converter 25, and the signal processing function and controlfunction of MPU 26 collectively correspond to the image pickup unit 2.The control function of MPU 26 and data access section 27 togethercorrespond to the recorder 3. The control function and theimage-creation function of MPU 26 and data access section 27collectively correspond to the playback section 4. The mode selectionfunction of MPU 26 and mode selection button 38 correspond to the modeselector 5.

[0058] Operation of the present embodiment is described with referenceto FIGS. 3 to 7B. First, the “Normal Mode” is described. When the normalmode is selected by mode selection button 38, MPU 26 enters the normalmode and accordingly the camera is set to the normal mode. In the normalmode, an initial screen shown in FIG. 5 is displayed on LCD panel 29. Onthe bottom portion of the screen, operation buttons for image playbackare displayed. They are, from left to right, fast-reverse button 42,fast-forward button 43, frame-reverse button 44, pause button 45,frame-advance button 46, reverse-play button 47, stop button 48, andplay button 49. The operations of these buttons are performed throughtouch screen 30. This type of user interface is well-known as agraphical user interface (GUI). That is, operation buttons are displayedon LCD panel 29 as objects, and MPU 26 responds to operator's touching(or pressing) activities of these objects and reads out correspondingimage data and displays them on the LCD panel.

[0059] In the normal mode, normal actions are carried out by theoperations of operation buttons 33 and the operations buttons that aredisplayed on the screen for image playback. For example, when imagepickup button 34 is pressed, image pickup device 24 performs thephoto-electric conversion of the image of the object obtained throughimaging lens 23, and as a result, the photo-electric signal is convertedto a digital signal through A/D converter 25. In addition, at MPU 26,image processing operations, such as gamma correction, outlineenhancement, and white balance adjustments, are conducted and theresultant data are compressed and encoded. The encoded image data arerecorded in an image file on the magneto-optical recording medium 28 viadata access section 27 (FIG. 7A).

[0060] When focus button 35, zoom button 36, and exposure button 37 areoperated, MPU 26 recognizes their operations and accordingly controlsthe lens driving section 31 and exposure control section 32 to conductfocus adjustment, zoom control, and exposure adjustment, respectively.

[0061] In addition, when an operation button for image playback isoperated, MPU 26 reads out images from magneto-optical recording medium28 and plays them back. For example, when fast forward button 43 ispressed, MPU 26 creates display images in which some of the frames aredropped and displays them on LCD panel 29.

[0062] Next, the “Operation Instruction Mode” is explained. Suppose amagneto-optical recording medium 28 has the operation instruction imagesstored thereon for explaining the operations of operation buttons 33 andthe operations of operation buttons for image playback. The informationthat indicates whether the operation instruction images are stored ornot in the disc is recorded in the system region of magneto-opticalrecording medium 28 as a characteristic attribute of the disc. If thedisc contains the operation instruction images, they are stored asseparate image files for each operation button. Identification data thatuses the name of each operation button as its identification name isstored in the file label of each image file.

[0063] When this magneto-optical recording medium 28 is attached at MOdrive 41, MPU 26 accesses the system region and detects whetheroperation instruction images exist using the characteristic attribute ofthe disc. When operation instruction images exist, MPU 26 selects theoperation instruction mode and the camera is automatically set to anoperation instruction mode.

[0064] In a read only memory (ROM) inside MPU 26, a sequence program foroperation instruction mode is stored. This program is read out and MPU26 conducts the appropriate actions, as follows.

[0065] During the operation instruction mode, assume that image pickupbutton 34 is pressed, for example. MPU 26 recognizes the operation (SeeFIG. 6, Step 1) (S1)) and accesses the file label that has “image pickupbutton” as its identification name via data access section 27.

[0066] In the file label, the relative address indicating the locationof operation instruction image data for the image pickup button isstored. This address is used to seek the image data.

[0067] When the operation instruction image of image pickup button 34 isfound, MPU 26 reads out these image data, decodes, and displays them onLCD panel 29 (FIG. 6, Steps 2 and 3 (S2, S3)), as shown in FIG. 7B.

[0068] The contents of the operation instruction images are, forexample, a visual image explanation of how to press the operation buttonand/or what kind of function will be carried out when the operationbutton is pressed.

[0069] Similarly, when other buttons: focus button 35, zoom button 36,exposure button 37, and the operation button for image playback, arepressed, operation instruction images that explain the correspondingbutton operation and/or function in the normal mode are played back.

[0070] Switching to the operation explanation mode may also be carriedout by the mode selection operation of mode selection button 38.Further, it is possible to record photographic images in the remainingempty spaces of magneto-optical recording medium 28 in which operationinstruction images are stored.

[0071] As described above, according to the electronic camera of thepresent embodiment, the operation instruction image about each operationbutton can be played back just by pressing an operation button.Therefore, without depending on the operation manual, even users withpoor understanding of the camera operations can understand the cameraoperations and functions within a short period of time and can startusing the camera efficiently.

[0072] In this embodiment, the operation instruction images of thepresent embodiment are moving images. However, they are not limited tomoving images and it is possible to display texts for the operationinstructions, for example. Alternatively, it is possible to giveoperation instructions through sound by storing sound data inmagneto-optical recording medium 28.

[0073] Also, the recording medium is not limited to a magneto-opticalrecording medium. A magnetic recording medium (which is not limited to adisc form and includes a tape form, etc.), an optical recording medium,or a semiconductor recording medium (memory card, etc.) can be used aswell.

[0074] Furthermore, it is possible to play back the operationinstruction images for the operations of the image adjustment buttons,such as brightness adjustment button 50 and white balance adjustmentbutton 51, as shown in FIG. 8. During display of such information, it ispossible to display a sample image and actually adjust the quality ofthe sample image in correspondence to the operation of the imageadjustment buttons. By doing this, the operator can learn the operationof the image adjustment as she experiences it.

[0075] Auxiliary output terminal 40 is a terminal for outputting imagesto other devices, such as personal computers. Using the auxiliaryterminal 40, it is possible, for example, to play back operationinstructions images on an external terminal or display.

[0076] In the present embodiment, one set of operation instructionimages are used for each instruction. However, the invention is notlimited to this. It is possible to have an operation instruction modethat stores multiple sets of operation instruction images (for example,instruction through moving images, instruction through texts,instruction through sound, instruction in English, Japanese, or otherlanguages) on the recording medium so that the operator can selectdesirable ones from them. Also, if sequence programs of the operationinstruction mode are stored on the same recording medium as theoperation instruction image, the operation instruction images and thesequence programs of the operation instruction mode can be changed atthe same time.

[0077] Moreover, in this embodiment, the operation instruction imagesmay be stored on detachable magneto-optical recording medium 28.However, the invention is not limited to this and it is possible tostore the operation instruction images in an internal memory of thecamera main body, for example.

[0078] In this embodiment, MPU 26 may automatically select the operationinstruction mode when magneto-optical recording medium 28 havingoperation instruction images is attached. However, the invention is notlimited to this and it is possible to design the camera so that if thereis no operation instruction image stored in a disc, then the cameracannot be switched to the operation instruction mode. Furthermore, it ispossible to not only automatically select the operation explanation modebut also automatically playback the operation instruction imagesexplaining overall operations and/or functions of the electronic camera.For example, general instructions for the camera functions orinstructions about the photographic process are appropriate as thecontent of the operation instruction images.

[0079] The electronic camera of FIG. 1 has an operation instruction modein which when a camera operation is carried out, an operationinstruction guide for that operation is played back. Therefore, theoperator can understand the function of the camera efficiently andquickly without relying on the operation manual. In addition, even ifthe camera operation is complicated, users can learn the operationeasily.

[0080] In addition, it is possible to even omit operation manuals,therefore eliminating the costs for operation manual production.

[0081] When a recording medium, on which guide images are stored, isattached, the electronic camera of FIG. 2 is automatically switched toan operation instruction mode. Therefore, it is possible to avoidmistakes or troubles in switching to the operation instruction mode.

[0082] As described above, the electronic camera of the presentembodiment can be easily used by operators who are inexperienced withcamera operations.

[0083] Second Preferred Embodiment

[0084]FIG. 9 shows a principle block diagram of an electronic cameraaccording to a second preferred embodiment of the present invention.

[0085] The electronic camera of FIG. 9 has an image pickup unit 101 thatcaptures the image of an object, and a recorder 102 that records theimage generated by the image pickup unit 101 on a recording medium.Playback section 103 plays back the image that is recorded on therecording medium. Mode selector 104 can select a function diagnosis modeby an external selection operation. Function tester 105 tests eachfunction of the camera when the function diagnosis mode is selected bymode selector 104.

[0086]FIG. 10 shows a principle block diagram of another example of theelectronic camera according to the second preferred embodiments of thepresent invention. In the electronic camera of FIG. 10, an image pickupfunction of the image pickup unit 101 is selected in accordance with anexternal operation designating that function. The image pickup unit 101captures images according to the selected function. When one of theimage pickup functions at the image pickup unit 101 is selected whilethe camera is in the function diagnosis mode set by the mode selector104, the function tester 105 tests the corresponding image pickupfunction.

[0087]FIG. 11 shows a principle block diagram of still another exampleof the electronic camera according to the second preferred embodiment ofthe present invention. In the electronic camera of FIG. 11, a playbackfunction to be performed at the playback section 103 is selected byexternal operations, and the playback section 103 plays back images(which is recorded on the recording medium, for example) in accordancewith the selected playback function. When one of the playback functionsto be performed at the playback section 103 is selected through anexternal operation while the camera is in the function diagnosis mode,function tester 105 tests the corresponding playback function.

[0088]FIG. 12 shows a principle block diagram of still another exampleof the electronic camera according to the second embodiment of thepresent invention. In the electronic camera of FIG. 12, the functiontester 105 displays the test results on a display screen that is alsoused for displaying images through the playback section 3

[0089] In the electronic camera of FIG. 9, the image pickup unit 101takes a picture of an object and creates an image. The recorder 102records the image created by image pickup unit 101 on a recordingmedium. Playback section 103 plays back the image recorded on therecording medium. When an operator selects the function diagnosis modethrough the mode selector 104, the electronic camera is set to thefunction diagnosis mode. Then, function tester 105 automatically carriesout predetermined function (performance) tests for each function of thecamera.

[0090] According to the electronic camera of FIG. 10, an image pickupfunction can be selected through external operations by an operator, andthe image pickup unit 101 captures images in accordance with theselected image pickup function. When one of the image pickup functionsis selected while the camera is set to the function diagnosis mode,function tester 105 performs predetermined tests with respect to thecorresponding image pickup function. Therefore, with the electroniccamera of FIG. 10, the function of the camera that is designated by theoperator is selectively tested.

[0091] With the electronic camera described in FIG. 11, a playbackfunction is selected by an external operation, and playback section 103plays back images in a condition corresponding to the selected playbackfunction (normal play, fast forward, etc.).

[0092] When the camera is in the function diagnosis mode and a playbackfunction is designated, function tester 105 performs predetermined testsfor the playback function. Therefore, the electronic camera of FIG. 11selectively tests the playback function that is designated by theoperator.

[0093] With the electronic camera described in FIG. 12, function tester105 performs predetermined tests for all or a certain group of functionsof the camera, and displays the test results (whether each function ofthe camera is normal, for example) on the display screen (a screen alsoused for playback section 103 to play back and/or display the image).

[0094]FIG. 13 is a structural block diagram of the electronic cameraaccording to the present embodiment. FIG. 14 is a perspective view ofthe electronic camera of FIG. 13.

[0095] Referring to FIG. 13, main body 121 is attached to a camera part122. Imaging lens 123 (or optical system) is installed in the camerapart 122, and an image pickup device 124 is arranged to detect lighttransmitted through the imaging lens 123. The image signal from imagepickup device 124 is input into MPU 126 via A/D converter 125.

[0096] MPU 126 is connected to magneto-optical recording medium 128 viadata access section 127. The magneto-optical recording medium 128 has adisc-shape or the like, for example, and may be detachable from mainbody 121. Also, it is possible to conduct random access on the recordingmedium 128.

[0097] Image signals output from MPU 126 are supplied to an LCD panel129. The LCD panel 129 has a touch screen 130 mounted thereon, and apressing operation sensed by touch screen 130 is supplied to MPU 126 aspositional information indicating the corresponding position in thescreen. The control signals output from MPU 126 are supplied to lensdriving section 131 and exposure control section 132.

[0098] Various operation buttons 133 are installed in the main body 121and connected to MPU 126. Examples of operation buttons are shown inFIG. 14. From right to left, an image pickup button 134, focus button135, zoom button 136, exposure button 137, and a mode selection button138 are installed at the top plate of main body 121. In addition, anauxiliary output terminal 140 and an MO drive 141 are installed at theside panel of the camera.

[0099] MPU 126 has an image signal processing function for processingthe image signals from A/D converter 125 and the image signals read outfrom magneto-optical recording medium 128, and a control function forcontrolling data access section 127, lens driving section 131, andexposure control section 132. MPU 126 further has an instruction(operation) recognition function that recognizes the instructions(operations) that are input through touch screen 130 and operationbuttons 133, an image creation function that creates the image that isdisplayed on LCD panel 129, a mode selection function that conducts modeselection designated by mode selection button 138, and the diagnosticfunction that conducts the diagnosis of each function of the camera.

[0100] The correspondence between the electronic camera of FIG. 9 andthe present example is as follows. Image pickup section 101 correspondsto imaging lens 123, image pickup device 124, A/D converter 125, and thesignal processing function of MPU 126. Recorder 102 corresponds to thecontrol function of MPU 126 and data access section 127. Playbacksection 103 corresponds to the signal processing function, controllingfunction, and image creation function of MPU 126 and data access section127. Mode selector 104 corresponds to the operation recognition and modeselection function of MPU 126. Function tester 105 corresponds to thesignal processing function, controlling function, and the diagnosticfunction of MPU 126.

[0101] In addition to the correspondence described above, in theelectronic camera of FIG. 10, the image pickup device 101 in FIG. 10corresponds to the controlling function and the operation-recognitionfunction of MPU 126.

[0102] In the electronic camera of FIG. 11, in addition to thecorrespondence described above, playback section 103 corresponds to theoperation-recognition function of MPU 126.

[0103] In the electronic camera of FIG. 12, in addition to thecorrespondence described above, function tester 105 corresponds to theimage creation function of MPU 126.

[0104] Operation of the present embodiment is described with referenceto FIGS. 13 to 16B as follows. First, the “Normal Mode” is described. Anelectronic camera according to the present embodiment can be switched toa “Normal Mode” similar to that for the above-mentioned first preferredembodiment by operating the mode selection button 138. In the normalmode, the initial screen similar to that of FIG. 5 is displayed on LCDpanel 129, for example. As shown in FIG. 5, a plurality of operationbuttons for image playback are displayed on the bottom portion of thescreen.

[0105] In addition, the electronic camera of the present embodiment maybe equipped with a button for reading out an image quality adjustmentscreen (the button is not shown in the figure). When the button ispressed, the image quality adjustment screen (the one shown in FIG. 8,for example) is displayed on LCD panel 129.

[0106] These operation buttons can be operated through touch screen 130utilizing a known technology, such as a GUI (Graphical User Interface).That is, on LCD panel 129, operation buttons are displayed as objects,and MPU 126 senses operator's touching activities of these objects andaccordingly plays back and adjusts the image.

[0107] In the normal mode, normal actions are carried out by theoperation of operation buttons 133 and the operation buttons for imageplayback, 42 to 49 of FIG. 5, and image quality adjustment buttons 50and 51 of FIG. 8.

[0108] For example, when image pickup button 134 is pressed, imagepickup device 124 performs a photo-electric conversion of the image ofan object obtained through the imaging lens 123, and accordingly thephoto-electric signal is converted into a digital signal through A/Dconverter 125. In addition, at MPU 126, image processing, such as gammacorrection, outline enhancement, and white balance adjustments, isconducted and the resultant data are then compressed and encoded. Theencoded image data are recorded in an image file on magneto-opticalrecording medium 128 via data access section 127 (FIG. 16A).

[0109] When focus button 135, zoom button 136, or exposure button 137 isoperated, MPU 126 recognizes that operation and controls lens drivingsection 131 and exposure control section 132 to conducts focusadjustment, zoom control, or exposure adjustment, respectively.

[0110] In addition, when the operation buttons 42 to 49 (FIG. 5) forimage playback are operated, MPU 126 reads out images corresponding tothe selected operation from magneto-optical recording medium 128 andplays them back. For example, when fast forward button 43 (FIG. 5) ispressed, MPU 126 creates moving display images in which some of theframes are dropped, and displays them on LCD panel 129.

[0111] Furthermore, when brightness adjustment button 50 or whitebalance adjustment button 51 (FIG. 8) are pressed, MPU 126 conducts gaincontrol of the photographic image, brightness control of the playbackimage, and the color signal control, etc., in accordance with theselected operation.

[0112] Next, the “Function Diagnosis Mode” is explained. When theelectronic camera of the present embodiment is switched to the functiondiagnosis mode by mode selection button 138, the camera is set to thefunction diagnosis mode. In this mode, predetermined tests are carriedout for each function of the camera corresponding to the respectiveoperation button. This test may be carried out with a sequence programstored in the internal ROM of MPU 126.

[0113] For example, when the image pickup button 134 is pressed, MPU 126recognizes that action and reads out a sequence program for testing thecorresponding image pickup function (FIG. 15, Step S1). MPU 126accordingly carries out the following tests for the image pickupfunction.

[0114] First, the image of an arbitrary object is captured through theimaging lens 123 for a predetermined period of time. Then, the image iscompressed and encoded to generate image data (FIG. 15, Steps S2 andS3). The image data is recorded in a blank region of magneto-opticalrecording medium 128 as a test image file (FIG. 15, Steps S4 and S5).When the test image file is recorded on magneto-optical recording medium128 and the test of the function is completed without abnormality, MPU126 creates a message “The image pickup function is normal,” anddisplays it on LCD panel 129 (FIG. 15, Step S6), as shown in FIG. 16B.Finally, MPU 126 accesses the file label of the test image file via dataaccess section 127 and deletes the test image file by rewriting the fileattribute to an overwritable attribute (FIG. 15, Step S7).

[0115] If there is abnormality in the image pickup function, e.g., thesubject images are not converted to the image data or the test imagefile is not recorded properly, MPU 126 displays a message “There is aproblem with the image-pickup function” (FIG. 15, Step S8) and abortsthe test.

[0116] When zoom button 136 is pressed, MPU 126 recognizes that actionand tests the zooming function with a sequence program. MPU 126 drivesimaging lens 123 from the maximum telephoto view to the maximumwide-angle view via lens driving section 131, for example. The designlens positions of the lens at the maximum telephoto view and maximumwide-angle view and the design duration of the zooming from the maximumtelephoto view to the maximum wide-angle view are pre-stored in theinternal ROM of MPU 126. By comparing and analyzing the stored designdata with the actual lens positions and actual zoom duration that aremeasured by a zoom encoder, whether the zooming action was carried outproperly can be determined. If the zooming action is conducted properly,MPU 126 displays a message “The zoom function is normal” on LCD panel129.

[0117] If there are some problems during the zooming test action: e.g.,the lens is not driven from the maximum telephoto view to the maximumwide-angle view, or the zooming speed is slow, a message “There is aproblem with the zoom function” is displayed on LCD panel 129 and thetesting action is aborted.

[0118] Moreover, when playback button 49 (FIG. 5) is pressed, MPU 126recognizes the operation and the playback function is tested with asequence program for testing the playback function. In the blank regionon magneto-optical recording medium 128, sample image files arepre-stored. MPU 126 accesses the file label and searches the sampleimage file via data access section 127. Then, MPU 126 reads out thesample image data via data access section 127, creates a display image,and displays it on LCD panel 129. When all the sample image data areread out and the playback action is completed without abnormality, MPU126 displays a message “The playback function is normal” on LCD panel129.

[0119] If there is abnormality during the test of the zooming action:e.g., the improper readout function of the image data or incompletecreation of the display image, then a message “There is a problem withthe playback function” is displayed on LCD panel 129 and the test actionis aborted.

[0120] Furthermore, when brightness adjustment button 50 (FIG. 8) ispressed, MPU 126 recognizes the operation, and with the sequenceprogram, the following diagnosis is carried out.

[0121] In the blank region of the magneto-optical recording medium 128,sample images files are pre-stored. MPU 126 reads out the sample imagedata and displays it on LCD panel 129. Then, MPU 126 conducts gaincontrol of the brightness within the range from 0 to 15 dB and createsimages in which the brightness of the sample images are variedsequentially. Subsequently, LCD panel 129 displays the thus createdsample images having brightness changed sequentially. When the test iscompleted without abnormality, MPU 126 displays a message “Thebrightness adjustment function is normal” on LCD panel 129.

[0122] When there are some problems with the gain control: e.g., thebrightness fails to change by the predetermined design amount, a message“There is a problem with the brightness adjustment function” isdisplayed and the test is aborted.

[0123] As described above, according to the electronic camera of thepresent embodiment, various camera functions can be tested simply bypressing the respective operation buttons under the function diagnosismode and each testing operation is automatic. Therefore, the operatorcan promptly confirm camera functions and can prepare for shootingpictures at ease.

[0124] The electronic camera according to the present invention also canbe adapted to automatically test all the camera functions once thecamera is switched to the function diagnosis mode by mode selectionbutton 138. In this case, the results of the test may be used todetermine the various statuses of the camera, the messages, such as “Allthe functions are normal,” “There is some problem with the machine,however, you can take pictures,” or “You cannot take pictures” may bedisplayed on the screen.

[0125] Also, the electronic camera according to the present inventioncan indicate not only whether the camera functions are normal, but alsowhere the problem exists inside the camera.

[0126] In the present embodiment, messages indicating whether the camerais functioning normally are displayed on LCD panel 129. Alternatively,the results of the diagnosis may be output in the form of sound.

[0127] The recording medium above is not limited to the magneto-opticalrecording medium. It is possible to use a magnetic recording medium(which is not limited to a disc shape and includes a tape form, etc.),optical recording medium, or semiconductor recording medium (e.g.,memory card).

[0128] The electronic camera described with reference to FIG. 9 canautomatically test each function of the camera when the functiondiagnosis mode is selected. Therefore, the operator can, in advance,confirm whether the camera is working normally or not. Accordingly, theoperator can prepare for shooting pictures at ease.

[0129] The electronic camera described with reference to FIG. 10 cantest the image pickup function of the camera that is designated throughan external operation. Therefore, the operator can easily and accuratelydetermine whether the photographic function is normal.

[0130] The electronic camera described with reference to FIG. 11 cantest the playback function of the camera that is designated by anexternal operation. Therefore, the operator can easily and accuratelydetermine whether the image playback function is normal.

[0131] With the electronic camera described with reference to FIG. 12,the test results of each function are displayed on the display screen,and therefore the operator can easily check the diagnosis result.

[0132] As described above, according to the electronic camera of thepresent embodiment, users can check the camera's function in advance andtherefore can relax and prepare for the shooting. In addition, if aproblem is found, users can easily understand the location of theproblem and accordingly can fix the problem easily.

[0133] It will be apparent to those skilled in the art that variousmodifications and variations can be made in the electronic camera of thepresent invention without departing from the spirit or scope of theinvention. Thus, it is intended that the present invention cover themodifications and variations of this invention provided they come withinthe scope of the appended claims and their equivalents.

What is claimed is:
 1. An electronic camera having a plurality offunctions including capturing and recording images, comprising: anoperation input unit for inputting external operations that designatecorresponding functions of the camera to be performed; an image pickupunit for capturing an image of an object; a recorder for recording theimage captured by the image pickup unit on a recording medium; aplayback unit for at least playing back image information that isrecorded on the recording medium; and a mode selector for selecting oneoperation mode of the camera from a plurality of available operationmodes that include an operation explanation mode, wherein if theoperation explanation mode is selected at the mode selector, theplayback unit plays back an operation guide that is pre-stored in amemory, the operation guide explaining at least one of the externaloperations and corresponding camera functions thereof.
 2. The electroniccamera according to claim 1, wherein while the electronic camera is setto the operation explanation mode by the mode selector, the playbackunit plays back the operation guide for the camera operation that isdesignated by the operation input unit.
 3. The electronic cameraaccording to claim 2, wherein while the electronic camera is set to theoperation explanation mode by the mode selector, the playback unit playsback the operation guide for the camera operation that is inputted bythe operation input unit without actually performing the correspondingcamera function designated by that camera operation.
 4. The electroniccamera according to claim 1, further comprising a recording medium drivefor driving a detachable recording medium, wherein the mode selectorautomatically selects the operation explanation mode in response toattachment to the recording medium drive of the detachable recordingmedium having the operation guide stored thereon.
 5. The electroniccamera according to claim 4, wherein the recorder records the imagecreated by the image pickup unit on the detachable recording medium. 6.The electronic camera according to claim 1, further comprising aninternal memory having the operation guide stored thereon.
 7. Theelectronic camera according to claim 1, wherein the mode selector isexternally accessible to select one of the operation modes of thecamera.
 8. The electronic camera according to claim 7, wherein the modeselector includes a mode selection button adapted to select one of theoperation modes of the camera.
 9. The electronic camera according toclaim 1, wherein the playback unit plays back the operation guide in theform of sound.
 10. The electronic camera according to claim 1, whereinthe playback unit plays back the operation guide in the form of images.11. The electronic camera according to claim 1, wherein when theoperation explanation mode is selected at the mode selector, theplayback unit automatically plays back an operation guide that explainsoverall operations of the electronic camera.
 12. The electronic cameraaccording to claim 1, wherein the operation input unit includesmechanical switches that each can be operated to designate thecorresponding functions of the camera.
 13. The electronic cameraaccording to claim 1, wherein the operation input unit includes touchscreen switches that each can be operated to designate the correspondingfunctions of the camera.
 14. An electronic camera, comprising: an imagepickup unit for capturing an image of an object; a recorder forrecording the image captured by the image pickup unit on a recordingmedium; a playback unit for at least playing back image information thatis recorded on the recording medium; a mode selector for selecting afunction diagnosis mode; and a function tester for testing functions ofthe camera if the function diagnosis mode is selected by the modeselector.
 15. The electronic camera according to claim 14, wherein theimage pickup unit captures the image in accordance with an externaloperation specifying an image pickup function of the image pickup unit,and wherein while the camera is set to the function diagnosis mode bythe mode sector, the function tester tests the image pickup function ofthe image pickup unit specified by the external operation.
 16. Theelectronic camera according to claim 14, wherein the playback unit playsback image information that is recorded on the recording medium inaccordance with an external operation specifying a playback function ofthe playback unit, and wherein while the camera is set to the functiondiagnosis mode by the mode selector, the function tester tests theplayback function of the playback unit specified by the externaloperation.
 17. The electronic camera according to claim 14, wherein theplayback unit includes a display unit for displaying test resultsgenerated by the function tester.
 18. An electronic camera having aplurality of functions including capturing and recording images, theelectronic camera comprising: a mode selector externally switchable toselect one of a function diagnosis mode and a normal mode; an operationinput unit for inputting external operations that initiate correspondingfunctions of the camera while the camera is in the normal mode; an imagepickup unit for capturing the image of an object in accordance with theexternal operations inputted through the operation input unit while thecamera is in the normal mode; a recorder for recording the imagecaptured by the image pickup unit in accordance with the externaloperations inputted through the operation input unit while the camera isin the normal mode; a playback unit for at least playing back imageinformation that is recorded on the recording medium in accordance withthe external operations inputted through the operation input unit whilethe camera is in the normal mode; and a function tester for testingfunctions of at least one of the operation input unit, the image pickupunit, the recorder, and the playback unit, when the function diagnosismode is selected by the mode selector.
 19. The electronic cameraaccording to claim 18, wherein the function tester automatically testsfunctions of at least one of the operation input unit, the image pickupunit, the recorder, and the playback unit, in response to the selectionof the function diagnosis mode by the mode selector.
 20. The electroniccamera according to claim 18, wherein while the camera is set to thefunction diagnosis mode by the mode selector, the function tester teststhe function of the camera that would be initiated in response to theexternal operation if the camera were in the normal mode.
 21. Anelectronic camera having a plurality of functions including capturingand recording images, the electronic camera comprising: a mode selectorexternally switchable to select one of an operation explanation mode, afunction diagnosis mode, and a normal mode; an operation input unit forinputting external operations that initiate corresponding functions ofthe camera while the camera is in the normal mode; an image pickup unitfor capturing the image of an object in accordance with the externaloperations inputted through the operation input unit while the camera isin the normal mode; a recorder for recording the image captured by theimage pickup unit in accordance with the external operations inputtedthrough the operation input unit while the camera is in the normal mode;a playback unit for at least playing back image information that isrecorded on the recording medium in accordance with the externaloperations inputted through the operation input unit while the camera isin the normal mode; and a function tester for testing functions of atleast one of the operation input unit, the image pickup unit, therecorder, and the playback unit, when the function diagnosis mode isselected by the mode selector, wherein if the operation explanation modeis selected at the mode selector, the playback unit plays back anoperation guide that is pre-stored in a memory, the operation guideexplaining at least one of the camera operations and functions thereof.22. An electronic camera having a plurality of functions includingcapturing and recording images, comprising: input means for inputtingexternal operations that designate corresponding functions of the camerato be performed; capture means for capturing an image of an object;recording means for recording the image captured by the capturing meanson a recording medium; playback means for playing back image informationthat is recorded on the recording means; and selecting means forselecting an operation mode of the camera from a plurality of availableoperation modes, where one operation mode is an operation explanationmode, wherein if the operation explanation mode is selected at theselecting means, the playback means plays back an operation guide thatis pre-stored in a memory, the operation guide explaining at least oneof the external operations and corresponding camera functions thereof.23. An electronic camera, comprising: capturing means for capturing animage of an object; recording means for recording the image captured bythe capturing means on a recording medium; playback means for playingback image information that is recorded on the recording medium;selecting means for selecting a function diagnosis mode; and testingmeans for testing functions of the camera if the function diagnosis modeis selected by the selecting means.